10 Tips to Fighting the Winter Blues

1.     Vitamin D3

a.      It’s both a vitamin and a hormone—due to the effect it has on hormones in the body, it’s thought to affect your mood by improving your sense of well-being

b.     Vitamin D levels can be checked by a simple blood test—talk to your doctor

2.     Philips Golite sunlamps

a. Easy to use/travel with (portable and rechargeable) b. Available on Amazon for about $120
c. Place at midriff 20 to 30 inches from face
d. Use at least 15 minutes per day

3.     Don’t fight it—rest, hibernate (go to bed early, movie binges, say no to too many activities/ making other people happy instead of yourself, take days off)

4.     Warm foods (soups, crock pots)

5.     Go outside to get sun/fresh air (ice skating, walks, skiing, sledding, throwing snow balls)

6.     See comedy shows like improv and stand-up

a.      Humor and laughter strengthen your immune system, boost your energy, diminish pain, and protect you from the damaging effects of stress

b.     Triggers the release of endorphins

c.      Laughing with others is even more powerful than laughing alone

d.     It’s a great date night

7.     Lots of sex

8.     Movement every day that gets you sweaty (trainer, dance, fun movement)

9.     Great looking winter clothes so you don’t feel dumpy

a. Wear vibrant colors and fitted clothes

10. Take a sunny vacation